Classical Guitar Strings

by Jamey Mann, Catoctin School of Music

Classical guitars use nylon strings, however it’s not quite that simple. Within the world of classical guitar strings there is a plethora of different materials, strings tensions, thickness, and brands. Deciding on which string to use is overwhelming and takes a long time to choose (if you ever really settle on one type).

Deciding on what strings to use comes down to how they sound on a particular instrument and the players’ personal preference. The most frustrating part of this equation is that instruments respond differently to certain strings. So, where a guitarist might love one set of strings on a guitar, those same strings may not work as well on another guitar.

The following is an overview of classical guitars strings.

1. String Tension– The string tension in the amount of force needed to bring the string up to standard tuning. Most brands of strings offer tensions from extra light to extra heavy. Which tension a guitarist chooses is mostly personal preference, however it is good to check with the guitar manufacturer before using extra heavy tension strings. Heavy strings can also be a little hard on the left had due to their stiffer feel, but it is a feel that many guitarists prefer. Hard tension strings offer a loud attack, but do not generally sustain the notes as well. Lower tension strings are easier on the fingers but tend to move more when being pressed therefore easy to pull out of tune. They tend to sustain notes better and make vibrato a little easier. Tension can vary between manufacturers.
2. Treble Strings materials – the first three strings of the guitar (e,b,g) are made from three different types of materials each with its own sound characteristics. Nylon (most common) gives the guitar a warm sound and good sustain but generally are not as loud as other materials such as carbon fiber. These strings are loud and punchy, however sacrifice warmth and sustain. Also, in my experience they wear out quickly. Titanium (not really titanium, but their manufacture process gives them a metallic look) will generally give a good sustain and vibrato. The downside to these strings is they are very temperature sensitive and like carbon fiber tend to wear out fast.
3. Bass string material- The last three string (d,a, low e) are mostly made from nylon strands wrapped with a thin metal wire. The wire which wraps around the fibers gives the bass strings their sound characteristics. In general, harder metals will give a louder punch to the guitar sound while softer metal will give the strings warmer tones. Material used can be copper, nickel, silver, or gold.
4. Mix and Match- It is common for experienced guitarists to start mixing brands, tensions, and materials for their preferred string set. As our ear becomes more acclimated to the subtle nuances of the guitar sound our preferences for strings develop. Some guitarists might love certain bass sounds, however the treble set of the same brand of strings is not what they are looking for. There are many websites where you can order half sets or individual strings so you can mix and match until you find the sound you are looking for.

It is important to remember that the guitar gets a say in what strings you choose as well. Unfortunately, some guitars, for various reasons, just may not like the strings you choose. It can be frustrating having to order many different brands of strings before settling on what works. I luckily have found a set of strings that I like, and they sound pretty good on all my guitars. They are not the best/most expensive strings overall but feel and work well. Finding this set has allowed me to not have to spend additional time and money infinitely searching for the perfect set of strings. It was well worth the initial hunt though!